Do College Student Leaders Have Moral Obligation?
There's much to say about Donald Trump, more against him than in praise of him, but the case of Bruins teammates LiAngelo Ball, Cody Riley and Jalen Hill might turn out to be one of those indelible moments during the Trump administration.
The Bruins traveled to China, where they would play Georgia Tech in Shanghai. It was their season opener, which wouldn't generate much fanfare as the (more popular) NBA season. And then the incident in the mall in Hangzhou. Ball, Riley, and Hill were caught shoplifting, spend a night in jail, and then released on bail. Trump told reporters that he asked Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, to resolve the case involving the three basketball players. The president tweeted it, wanting the trio to thank him for his effort. Bruins coach Steve Alford and athletic director Dan Guerrero were more sincere in thanking him, as the next series of events was bizarre (or hilarious) depending on the reader.
LaVar Ball, LiAngelo's father, sparred with Trump on Twitter, not showing a bit of gratitude on an incident that could have turned out worse for the Bruins players. LiAngelo and LaMelo, his younger brother, turned professional by signing contracts with the Lithuanian team Vytautas Prienai. The former admitted that the Bruins coaching staff forced him to apologize for his wrongdoing in front of reporters.
Trump may be criticized for intervening in the case of Ball, Riley, and Hill, but his action was an illustration of moral obligation. It was unexpected, probably uncharacteristic (from the point of view of his harshest critics), which would lead to a seemingly awkward question. Can the Trump administration salvage its tattered reputation? The dramatic departure of Omarosa Manigault Newman may lead to uneasy silence, but the happenings raises another question. Do college student leaders have a moral obligation?
Yes. Absolutely.
College student leaders should set an example, if not give a stern reminder, after incidents like the couple of thirtysomething Americans exposing their behinds inside Wat Arun (and posting it on Instagram). It shows that America has been living in a bubble for so long, if not another contempt case of Americans not giving a care about the world. (The arrest and death of Otto Warmbier would come to mind.) Actions speak louder than words, and it must start with small matters. And it doesn't take to be a leader to show the way.
10 Ways to Be a Leader (or Role Model)
Be friendly during the first week of the term. This won't be the best time to be a grouch, if not making fun of incoming freshmen struggling to make the transition (from high school to college). You've been in their shoes before. Someone would guide you back then. If you don't believe in giving back, then think of having a new friend. You'll never know what wonders await until you lend a helping hand.
Be mindful of other students. It's the only way to live along with each other. It will make your life easier especially during this time of the year. Don't you wish someone will inspire you to study harder?
Be forgiving of their little faults. There may be a limit to one's tolerance, but this can be discussed in a polite manner. Why not look at it as a getting-to-know-you stage? It might lead to a lifelong friendship.
Be the best that you can be. You don't want to do it because you want your coursemates to look up to you. Just do your best.
Be the one to reach out first. If you need help, then don't be ashamed to ask for help. If you need company, then don't hesitate to invite your coursemates (for a night out). If you have problems, then don't let it eat you up. You can talk about it with your tutor, if not someone from the Guidance Office. Your parents are a call away.
Be aware of current events. It doesn't mean that you must be watching the most popular reality TV shows. If you can't find the time to read the online news, then check out the latest happenings on social media. There's a proper place and time to talk about it with other students.
Be bold (to take a stand). If there's one thing that you can learn from the #MeToo movement, then it's that you can't be silent about anything that is offending you. It won't be right to be called a complicit.
Be not afraid of rejection (or backlash). It easier said than done, as peer pressure is not uncommon among teenagers. If this is bothering you, then seek assurance from your family (or the Guidance Office).
Be curious of what lies outside the university. The only way to be aware of what is happening around you is to be curious about the world. It's understandable to be all wrapped up on what lies within the four walls of the university, but think about life after receiving your college degree.
Be yourself. There's no other way.
A lesson from Frank Capra
Frank Capra's black-and-white films seemed like a page from a fairy tale, where Americans followed a list of unwritten rules on good conduct. There wasn't a trace of angst, even cynicism. Life was uncomplicated back then. It would be nonexistent in the big cities, but there may be a remote community that uphold Capra's themes.
Is it possible for college students to imitate art? Yes. It might last a day, but it's better than none at all. Then again, it will be better to exert some effort. Optimism goes a long way. You must also do the right thing.
